A powerful new play is set to visit Hexham, telling a deeply personal story of finding your voice.
It’s a Wonderful Us is the latest production from Gateshead-based Lawnmowers Theatre Company and Murmur Theatre, written and directed by award-winning playwright Steve Gilroy.
The play was developed over six years in collaboration with learning-disabled artists, their families, and the creative team.
Steve Gilroy, writer and director, said: "It’s a Wonderful Us has been built slowly and carefully over six years, through interviews, workshops and long conversations with the performers and their families.
"Life changed dramatically for all of us during that time – including periods of serious illness and isolation – but the commitment to telling this story never wavered.
"What emerged is an original piece that speaks honestly about the challenges our protagonist faces, the societal constraints around him, and the complexities of family relationships.
"At its heart this is a play about what we inherit and what we choose to leave behind."
The story centres on a variety duo attempting to revive their act, while confronting their shared past and revealing a hidden family history shaped by love, constraint, and the struggle to be heard.
Combining magical realism, comedy, and lived experience, the play aims to challenge assumptions and broaden representation for learning-disabled artists.
Wendy Patterson, general manager of The Lawnmowers, said: "As part of its 40th anniversary, Lawnmowers presents a bold, uplifting new production that shines a spotlight on the extraordinary creativity, passion, and professionalism of performers with learning disabilities.
"This work is a powerful reflection of four decades of commitment to inclusion and artistic excellence.
"It proudly celebrates the vital contribution artists with learning disabilities make to our cultural landscape, challenging outdated perceptions and demanding recognition of voices too often overlooked.
"Audiences can expect an inspiring, thought-provoking, and deeply moving experience – one that celebrates talent without limits and reaffirms the transformative power of inclusive art."
The play will premiere at Northern Stage in Newcastle on October 17, before embarking on a UK tour running until May 2027.
It will be performed at Hexham's Queen's Hall on November 12.
It’s a Wonderful Us has been funded by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
The project is a collaboration between The Lawnmowers and Murmur Theatre, with the script co-created by performers Andrew McLeod and Andrew Robson.
More information and tour dates can be found at lawnmowerstheatre.com/productions/its-a-wonderful-us.
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